We've all encountered the unpleasant, unwelcome sounds in a quiet car, familiarly known in the automotive industry as BSR, that is, Buzz, Squeak, and Rattle. All equally annoying, the source of many driver complaints and frustrations to manufacturers, dealers and mechanics, these irritations may be successfully remedied by using metal coating technologies.

What Causes BSR?

Technically speaking, buzz, squeak and rattle are three separate noises with distinct causes and sources, though to consumers they're mostly perceived as problematic indicators of poor quality.

Buzz
Noises perceived as buzzing are caused by vibrations in parts themselves, and sound similar to what we might hear from some electrical components or a failing fluorescent light tube or ballast.

Squeak
Rubbing and friction cause squeaking noises in various pitches as parts stick together as they slide against each other. 

Rattle
Rattles are caused by parts banging or colliding together.

Design considerations and testing during the manufacturing process can eliminate many BSR noises, but in other instances, they may not become apparent until vehicles are used by consumers in particular driving styles and environments. 

How Can Metal Coating Prevent or Fix BSR?

Metal coatings to the rescue! A little preemptive action by applying anti-BSR coatings to metal automotive components can help prevent BSR problems. With the wide variety of plastics available for dip and powder coating, multiple resins are effective solutions for each aspect of BSR. They offer varying degrees of insulation, impact resistance, friction reduction, and sound dampening, all of which can help in areas where BSR may develop.

Nylon Powder Coating
Exceptionally durable, highly resistant to corrosion, chemicals, abrasion, and impacts, coating parts in nylon can be particularly effective at reducing the risk of rubbing and squeaking parts. 

Plastisol
Cost-effective and extremely versatile, plastisol is highly resistant, cold tolerant, and durable. It has a soft, rubbery feel, making it an excellent choice for reducing vibrations and sounds from impacts between parts. 

PTFE and ECTFE Coatings
Teflon (PTFE) and Halar (ECTFE) coatings are especially effective at reducing friction and thus reducing the likelihood of squeaking noises. 

Affordable and effective, these and other plastic coatings can help stave off BSR complaints by eliminating problems before they start. At Precision Dip Coating, we have the experience and specialized expertise to help you select the most appropriate materials and techniques for BSR prevention and other plastic coating needs. Contact us today to see how we can meet or exceed your needs.